Ever wondered why two people—kids or adults—who start Jiu-Jitsu at the same time, are about the same age, and hold the same rank can have such dramatically different skill levels? The answer is often simpler than you might think.

The Usual Suspects
​People often assume that one instructor must be better than the other. While instruction quality does matter, it isn’t the most crucial factor. Yes, a great instructor can guide you well, but without the most important elements, even the best guidance won't take you to the top.

Natural Talent Isn’t Everything
Sure, natural talent can give someone a head start, but it's not the main reason for a practitioner's higher skill level. I've seen plenty of naturally talented students fade away because they lacked what truly matters for success in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.

The Real Secret
​After years of experience, I've learned the real secret to excelling in Jiu-Jitsu: dedication and devotion.
Students who truly love Jiu-Jitsu, who train multiple times a week—or even multiple times a day—are the ones who rise to the top. They invest in private lessons, compete in every tournament they can, and spend their downtime watching Jiu-Jitsu matches and techniques online. This level of dedication and devotion makes all the difference.

Out-Training the Best
My first Sensei, Jorge Pereira, taught me early on that if I wanted to be the best, I had to out-train the best. So, for many years of my BJJ career, I trained relentlessly with the intent to out-train everyone else.

A Reciprocal Relationship
You get from BJJ what you give to BJJ. It's a reciprocal relationship. If you give your time, mind, and heart, you'll get a lot back when the time comes. That is the real secret.
​When you see Jiu-Jitsu students executing precise moves, it's because they've practiced those moves countless times with love, dedication, and devotion. So, if you're looking to reach the top in Jiu-Jitsu, remember: it's all about how much you put into it.